Sleep Apnea
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
The first step in treatment for sleep apnea resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer consultation and treatment options.
In addition to a detailed history, the doctors will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometic (skull x-ray) analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a naso-pharyngeal exam is done with a flexible fiber-optic camera. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
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Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
There are several treatment options available. An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night. One of the surgical options is an uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP), which is performed in the back of the soft palate and throat. A similar procedure is sometimes done with the assistance of a laser and is called a laser assisted uvulo-palato-plasty (LAUPP). In other cases, a radio-frequency probe is utilized to tighten the soft palate. These procedures are usually performed under light IV sedation in the office.
In more complex cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to two day overnight stay in the hospital.
OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.
Loudoun Center for Oral Surgery
Patient Review By Sharon M
I would recommend Dr. Bae to anyone that has a fear of even complex dental procedures. His credentials are notable and he portrays confidence which confirmed in my mind that I was in good hands. His demeanor is friendly yet professional. The office was spic and span clean. Dr. Bae is more than competent at what he does. The timeliness and efficiency of which my dental procedure was handled curtailed my dentophobia which can be intense. I very much appreciate that Dr. Bae took the time to personally call me back when my scheduled oral surgeon fell ill and I needed an extraction for a tooth that cracked the whole way around. It is worthy of noting that he took care of me even though he had other procedures scheduled all during a time of a pandemic situation. These selfless people that open their offices to help others while possibly endangering themselves are worthy of much admiration and prayer. Many, many thanks and I hope to send you referrals in the future.
- Sharon M
Patient Review By Emmanuel O
The Dr was friendly and very knowledgeable. Great office and will definitely refer anyone.
- Emmanuel O
Patient Review By Nelson R
Loudoun Center for Oral Surgery/Dr. Jason Bae are outstanding! I came in on an emergency after being referred by another dental practice. I had severe tooth pain due to impacted wisdom teeth. Their customer service, from the first time I called to schedule a last-minute appointment to my final follow-up visit, were outstanding. They were able to fit me in and manage the pain so that I could get through the weekend until my surgery time. They were caring and made me feel comfortable about the whole process. The day of my surgery, everyone was great, surgery went smoothly. Dr. Bae even took the time in the evening to personally call and check-up on me. I thought that was incredible. It showed care and commitment to his patients. Throughout my entire experience, I felt that the staff was knowledgeable, professional and friendly. Dr. Bae explained the details of the surgery and what to expect and do afterwards, He also listened and addressed all my concerns. Although my reason for being there was not great at all (because of the pain), they made the whole experience in the practice a great as it could be. I would recommend Dr. Jason Bae and his team to anyone that needs an oral surgeon. Thank you Dr. Bae and staff! -Nelson
- Nelson R
Patient Review By Nadia T
I had amazing experience of painless extraction of my wisdom tooth.
- Nadia T
Patient Review By zaheera b
He is an excellent doctor. he is very knowledgeable. he done a best surgery for my wisdom teeth. it was a great experience as well as healing process is also very good. Mr. Jason and his staff is very professional and friendly.
- zaheera b
Patient Review By JIMMY A
Dr Jason Bae is the best Dental oral surgeon ever. I have had a few surgeries for my teeth but the experience I had with Dr. Bae was one that I will remember for a long time in a positive way. The tooth extractions was very complicated and difficulty, however Dr. Bae performed the surgery extremely careful and with care not to damage the nerves where the root had grown with a lot of depth. It took a long time and yet Dr. Bae was very patient and careful. I was very honored and surprised when Dr Bae called me at night to check on my status and advise me what I needed to do if I was experiencing pain. I have to admit that it was the first time in my life that a doctor has called me after treatment to inquire about my status. I highly recommend Dr Bae
- JIMMY A
Patient Review By Ashley S
I had 3 wisdom teeth removed 12 days ago. Dr. Bae made the procedure effortless. My initial consultation he made me feel informed and comfortable with what was expected. His staff was very friendly and accommodating. Post extraction, I did not have any issues with recovery. No swelling or dry sockets. Everything happened as expected. I had my follow up appointment today and I am pleased with all the effort Dr. Bae and his staff invested with me in making this procedure effortless.
- Ashley S
Patient Review By Rhiannon A
Dr. Bae and the rest of the staff were very kind and professional.
- Rhiannon A
Patient Review By Peter A
I rate Dr. Jason Bae very highly and would recommend him to others.
- Peter A
Patient Review By Lohania D
The pain that i was in when i came into his office felt like a near death experience..when i left his office, i felt like i was in heaven. I followed the docs instructions and there hasnt been any problem since then..Thank God for doctors and dentist..
- Lohania D
Patient Review By Michael P
Great service
- Michael P